If you think that the majority of today’s RV owners fit into the narrow profile of retired grandparents who lounge around at an RV resort or park, you should certainly reconsider. According to a recent article from CNBC, the average age of an RV owner has dropped from 50 to 48, while overall RV sales continue to climb due to lower fuel prices and the desire for a simpler lifestyle.
In fact, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association’s most recent ownership report, the fastest-growing age group of RV owners in 2013 was 35 to 44 years old. “Today’s record RV ownership levels reflect the enduring appeal of the RV lifestyle despite recent economic challenges,” said RVIA President Richard Coon. “I expect RV ownership to continue growing as more and more people learn how RVing is a cost-effective and fun way to spend time outdoors with family and friends.”
These record RV ownership levels are leading to a boost in Class A, Class C, and Class B RV sales, according to the Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA). In the June issue of the FRVTA’s newsletter, the organization had these positive RV shipment and sales trends to report.
Recent RV Sales Statistics
- RV shipments were up by 11.5% through the first quarter of the year, according to RVIA’s March survey of RV manufacturers.
- Class C RV shipments were up 24.7% and Class A RV shipments were up 11.2%.
- On the sales side on the industry, RV registrations jumped up by 8.5% compared to last year, according to the latest report by Statistical Surveys Inc. (SSI).
- Thor Industries Inc. led the motorized RV sales category during the month of March with a 28.2% market share, with Forest River Inc. at 25.8% and Winnebago Industries Inc. with a 14.5% share.
- Class A RV sales rose slightly in March, up 0.5%, with the sector posting a 7.1% gain year-to-date. Thor was this segment leader with a 25.1% market share followed by Forest River and REV Group, both at 15.7%. Winnebago was third, earning a 14.5% share, while Tiffin Motorhomes Inc. captured 13.6% of the market.
- Class C RV registrations jumped up by 16.1% in March, in part due to a strong rental market, and showed a 15.4% gain for the three months. Forest River was the sales leader year-to-date with a 36% market share, followed by Thor (31.4%) and Winnebago (14.6%).
- SSI reports that Class B RV sales fell 8.5% in March, but still finished the quarter up 1.2% year-to-date. Winnebago Industries Inc. was the top-selling manufacturer for the quarter with 34.3% of the Class B RV Roadtrek Motorhomes Inc. was next with 31.5% market share followed by Thor Industries Inc. with 20.3% and Pleasure-Way Industries Ltd. at 10.1%.
If you have been thinking of buying a Class A, Class C, or Class B RV, call us at (863) 450-4915. Easy Escapes RV in Auburndale, Florida has a selection of pre-owned RVs that can help you avoid high depreciation expenses.